Ultimate Guide: How to Get Rid of Cockroaches Fast and Naturally

Cockroaches are one of the most persistent and unwanted pests that can invade your home. These resilient insects can survive in almost any environment, reproduce quickly, and spread harmful bacteria. Worse, they often come out at night, making it difficult to detect a full infestation.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how to get rid of cockroaches naturally, efficiently, and for good—using DIY strategies, natural deterrents, and expert prevention tips.

👀 Why Are Cockroaches So Hard to Remove?

Cockroaches are nocturnal creatures that thrive in warm, dark, and moist environments—such as behind your fridge, under the sink, or inside wall cracks. Their rapid reproduction cycle and strong survival skills make them hard to manage without a proper strategy.

🧫 Health Risks They Bring

• Spread bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus
• Contaminate food and surfaces
• Trigger allergies and asthma
• Leave unpleasant odors and stains

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Get Rid of Cockroaches Naturally

1. Clean Your Home Thoroughly

The first step is simple: don’t give cockroaches a reason to stay.

Actionable tips:

• Clean up food crumbs and spills immediately
• Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight
• Store food in sealed containers
• Take out the trash daily
• Vacuum and mop floors regularly

💡 Cockroaches are scavengers. A spotless kitchen reduces their food supply significantly.

2. Eliminate Water Sources

Roaches can survive weeks without food but only a few days without water.

Do this:

• Fix leaking pipes and faucets
• Wipe sinks and countertops dry before bed
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas.

3. Seal All Cracks and Entry Points

They hide in tiny spaces. Cut off their shelter.

Target these areas:

• Wall cracks and floor gaps
• Spaces under baseboards
• Areas behind cabinets and appliances
• Holes near plumbing

Seal these with silicone caulk or expanding foam.

4. Use Traps and Baits

🪤 Sticky Traps

Place sticky traps near baseboards, under sinks, and behind appliances. These are helpful for monitoring activity and reducing their movement.

💡 Want to learn how to deal with other household pests too? Check out our full guide on how to get rid of insects in the house for more effective and natural strategies.

🍽️ Bait Stations

Use commercial baits containing slow-acting substances that roaches carry back to their hiding spots, reducing the population over time.

Placement Tips:

• Behind the fridge
• Under the stove
• In bathroom cabinets

⚠️ Keep out of reach of children and pets.

🌿 Natural Remedies to Repel or Eliminate Cockroaches

5. Boric Acid + Sugar Paste

A classic DIY remedy.

How to use:

1. Mix 2 parts boric acid with 1 part sugar
2. Add a bit of water to form a thick paste
3. Apply under appliances, inside cracks, and along baseboards

⚠️ Don’t use if you have pets or toddlers.

6. Baking Soda + Sugar Mix

Safer alternative to boric acid.

Steps:

• Mix equal parts sugar and baking soda
• Place the mixture on shallow dishes or lids near cockroach-prone areas

7. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)

This powder scratches cockroach exoskeletons, causing dehydration.

Instructions:

• Sprinkle in dry areas like corners, behind the fridge, and under furniture
• Reapply after cleaning or when it gets wet.

8. Essential Oils

Natural options with strong aromas that roaches dislike.

Best options:

• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Tea tree oil
• Rosemary oil

How to use:
Mix 15–20 drops with water in a spray bottle and apply to entry points, kitchen corners, and under appliances.

9. Bay Leaves

Cockroaches dislike their scent. Place crushed or whole bay leaves inside drawers, cabinets, and behind kitchen items.

10. Cold Air

Cockroaches avoid cold temperatures. Keeping your house well-ventilated and cool can reduce their activity and make the space less inviting.

❌ What Not to Do

• Don’t rely solely on aerosol sprays—they may scatter roaches into new hiding spots
• Avoid clutter—newspapers, cardboard, and clothes create perfect shelters
• Don’t leave pet food out overnight.

🔍 When to Call a Pest Control Professional

If:

• You still see roaches after 2–3 weeks of treatment
• The infestation spreads to multiple rooms
• You find roach egg cases or signs of nests

A licensed pest control expert can provide safe and effective solutions tailored to your home.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)